ELLSWORTH COUNTY—A Kansas sheriff's deputy was injured in an accident just after 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Ford Explorer&nbsp;with emergency equipment activated and driven by Ellsworth County Deputy Adam M. Macy, 27, Salina, was responding to a collision on&nbsp;Kansas Highway 14 one quarter miles north of Ave H.

The driver lost control on the ice. The SUV entered the ditch and rolled one time.&nbsp; EMS transported Macy to the hospital in Ellsworth. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—A Kansas sheriff's deputy was injured in an accident just after 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Ford Explorer&nbsp;with emergency equipment activated and driven by Ellsworth County Deputy Adam M. Macy, 27, Salina, was responding to a collision on&nbsp;Kansas Highway 14 one quarter miles north of Ave H.The driver lost control on the ice. The SUV entered the ditch and rolled one time.&nbsp; EMS transported Macy to the hospital in Ellsworth. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. deputy hospitalized after SUV rolls on icy road

Tips on how to dispose of and utilize Christmas trees at the end of the season

K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Christmas trees bring Christmas glee, but they can bring even more than that once the holiday season is past, said Kansas State University forester Charlie Barden.&nbsp;

“An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder,” he said.&nbsp;

Christmas trees can give birds an escape from hawks or cats and keep them protected from the wind chill on cool nights. Or, Barden said, a tree can improve fish habitat and fishing by sinking it into a pond.&nbsp;

“The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life,” Barden said.&nbsp;

Barden said sinking a tree is simple: Tie a cinder block with a short, stout rope to the base of the tree and drop it in - with permission from the pond owner.&nbsp;

Christmas trees can also be allowed to dry and used as firewood. But, Barden cautions, “beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions.”&nbsp;

Another option, according to Barden: Many municipalities allow Christmas trees to be placed on the curb for pickup, then burned or ground for mulch.&nbsp;

Barden and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with more tips on maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Ward Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672020662824.jpeg" alt="Fresh Christmas trees remain useful after the holiday. Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Fresh Christmas trees remain useful after the holiday. Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Tips on how to dispose of and utilize Christmas trees at the end of the season</h2>K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Christmas trees bring Christmas glee, but they can bring even more than that once the holiday season is past, said Kansas State University forester Charlie Barden.&nbsp;“An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder,” he said.&nbsp;Christmas trees can give birds an escape from hawks or cats and keep them protected from the wind chill on cool nights. Or, Barden said, a tree can improve fish habitat and fishing by sinking it into a pond.&nbsp;“The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life,” Barden said.&nbsp;Barden said sinking a tree is simple: Tie a cinder block with a short, stout rope to the base of the tree and drop it in - with permission from the pond owner.&nbsp;Christmas trees can also be allowed to dry and used as firewood. But, Barden cautions, “beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions.”&nbsp;Another option, according to Barden: Many municipalities allow Christmas trees to be placed on the curb for pickup, then burned or ground for mulch.&nbsp;Barden and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with more tips on maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html" target="_blank">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.&nbsp;Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Ward Upham at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wupham@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wupham@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.&nbsp;

Once Christmas is over, what happens to the tree?

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Dodge Ram driven by Jose L. Murillo, 47, Colorado Springs, Colo., was eastbound on Interstate 70 a mile east of 6th Road&nbsp;just before 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.

The driver lost control due to ice on the roadway. The pickup left the roadway, struck a guardrail and came to rest in the median.

An infant, one of three children in the vehicle, had a minor injury.&nbsp; Murillo and another passenger in the vehicle were not injured. The injured child was not properly restrained, according to the KHP.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Dodge Ram driven by Jose L. Murillo, 47, Colorado Springs, Colo., was eastbound on Interstate 70 a mile east of 6th Road&nbsp;just before 7:30 p.m. Sunday in Ellsworth County.The driver lost control due to ice on the roadway. The pickup left the roadway, struck a guardrail and came to rest in the median.An infant, one of three children in the vehicle, had a minor injury.&nbsp; Murillo and another passenger in the vehicle were not injured. The injured child was not properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Baby injured after pickup strikes guardrail on I-70

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

It’s the Big 12 championship football game in Arlington, Texas. The offensive starters take the field. The big offensive linemen get in position for the first snap. A look at the roster reveals that this is homegrown talent: Three of K-State’s five starting offensive linemen come from the state of Kansas.&nbsp;

Cooper Beebe, Hadley Panzer, and Hayden Gillum are the Sunflower State starting linemen who help anchor Kansas State’s offensive line. Beebe is from Kansas City, Kansas and attended Piper High School. Panzer is from the&nbsp;rural&nbsp;community of Lakin, population 2,205, and Gillum is from the&nbsp;rural&nbsp;community of Plainville, population 1,746 people. Now, that’s&nbsp;rural.&nbsp;

Cooper Beebe became a starter at K-State in 2020 – the same year he first earned All-Big 12 Academic honors. In 2021, he earned First Team All-Big 12 honors from both the league’s coaches and Associated Press -- the youngest offensive lineman to be named to the first team by either organization.&nbsp;

Beebe also was the first Wildcat freshman or sophomore offensive lineman to be named a First Team All-Big 12 performer since Dalton Risner in 2016. Beebe entered the 2022 season with lots of accolades: Pre-season All Big 12, pre-season All-American, and named to the Outland Trophy watch list.&nbsp;

At 6-foot-4 and 322 pounds, Beebe’s 2022 season has been outstanding. He was named a First Team All-Big 12 performer by the Associated Press for a second-consecutive season and First Team All-American by The Sporting News.&nbsp;

Named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year by the league's coaches, Beebe did not allow a sack among his 395 passing blocking snaps this season, according to Pro Football Focus. Beebe has not surrendered a sack in his last 28 games dating back to 2020.&nbsp;

Lakin’s Hadley Panzer is only a sophomore, but stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 300 pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hayden Gillum was a four-year letter winner at Plainville before coming to K-State as a walk-on. He earned Second Team Academic All-Big 12 honors. Now 6-foot-3 and 286 pounds, he has become a standout center for the Wildcats.&nbsp;

Speaking of walk-ons, Austin Moore is from Louisburg and walked-on at K-State in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a reserve linebacker, he earned First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors and was one of 13 players in the league to be nominated with a 4.0 GPA. He achieved First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors again in 2021.&nbsp;

Nicknamed ‘The Machine’ by his teammates, Moore started every game at linebacker in 2022. He finished the regular season with 82 tackles and led the Wildcats in tackling in three games.&nbsp;

Jaylen Pickle from Cimarron was another significant contributor for the Wildcats. The 6-foot-5, 310-pounder started at defensive end.&nbsp;

D.J. Giddens came to K-State from Junction City. He not only emerged as back-up running back to All-American Deuce Vaughn, he became a weapon for the Wildcats in his own right. Against West Virginia, the freshman had a 49-yard run for a touchdown.&nbsp;

Then there is punter/placekicker Ty Zentner from Topeka. He achieved Academic All-Big 12 honors in 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he was named to the Associated Press All-Big 12 team.&nbsp;

As a punter, Zentner enters bowl season ranked 17th in the nation and second in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average, a mark that currently ranks second in school history. He has 19 punts this season that have traveled at least 50 yards, while a career-high 26 of his punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.&nbsp;

As a placekicker, Zentner went 29-for-29 on extra-point attempts and 9-for-9 on field goals, including the one in overtime that gave K-State the Big 12 championship.&nbsp;

The state of Kansas has been good to the K-State football program. Since 1990, Wildcat players earning all conference honors have come from 33 cities in Kansas.&nbsp;

The Big 12 championship game is over, and confetti rains down as a Big 12 championship is celebrated by the Wildcats – including those big offensive linemen. We commend all Kansas kids for making a difference in playing so well for their in-state teams because we appreciate homegrown heroes.&nbsp;

Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.

For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671987177011.jpeg" alt="Big 12 Championship trophy presentation. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Big 12 Championship trophy presentation. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State UniversityIt’s the Big 12 championship football game in Arlington, Texas. The offensive starters take the field. The big offensive linemen get in position for the first snap. A look at the roster reveals that this is homegrown talent: Three of K-State’s five starting offensive linemen come from the state of Kansas.&nbsp;Cooper Beebe, Hadley Panzer, and Hayden Gillum are the Sunflower State starting linemen who help anchor Kansas State’s offensive line. Beebe is from Kansas City, Kansas and attended Piper High School. Panzer is from the&nbsp;rural&nbsp;community of Lakin, population 2,205, and Gillum is from the&nbsp;rural&nbsp;community of Plainville, population 1,746 people. Now, that’s&nbsp;rural.&nbsp;Cooper Beebe became a starter at K-State in 2020 – the same year he first earned All-Big 12 Academic honors. In 2021, he earned First Team All-Big 12 honors from both the league’s coaches and Associated Press -- the youngest offensive lineman to be named to the first team by either organization.&nbsp;Beebe also was the first Wildcat freshman or sophomore offensive lineman to be named a First Team All-Big 12 performer since Dalton Risner in 2016. Beebe entered the 2022 season with lots of accolades: Pre-season All Big 12, pre-season All-American, and named to the Outland Trophy watch list.&nbsp;At 6-foot-4 and 322 pounds, Beebe’s 2022 season has been outstanding. He was named a First Team All-Big 12 performer by the Associated Press for a second-consecutive season and First Team All-American by The Sporting News.&nbsp;Named the Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year by the league's coaches, Beebe did not allow a sack among his 395 passing blocking snaps this season, according to Pro Football Focus. Beebe has not surrendered a sack in his last 28 games dating back to 2020.&nbsp;Lakin’s Hadley Panzer is only a sophomore, but stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 300 pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hayden Gillum was a four-year letter winner at Plainville before coming to K-State as a walk-on. He earned Second Team Academic All-Big 12 honors. Now 6-foot-3 and 286 pounds, he has become a standout center for the Wildcats.&nbsp;Speaking of walk-ons, Austin Moore is from Louisburg and walked-on at K-State in 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;As a reserve linebacker, he earned First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors and was one of 13 players in the league to be nominated with a 4.0 GPA. He achieved First Team Academic All-Big 12 honors again in 2021.&nbsp;Nicknamed ‘The Machine’ by his teammates, Moore started every game at linebacker in 2022. He finished the regular season with 82 tackles and led the Wildcats in tackling in three games.&nbsp;Jaylen Pickle from Cimarron was another significant contributor for the Wildcats. The 6-foot-5, 310-pounder started at defensive end.&nbsp;D.J. Giddens came to K-State from Junction City. He not only emerged as back-up running back to All-American Deuce Vaughn, he became a weapon for the Wildcats in his own right. Against West Virginia, the freshman had a 49-yard run for a touchdown.&nbsp;Then there is punter/placekicker Ty Zentner from Topeka. He achieved Academic All-Big 12 honors in 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he was named to the Associated Press All-Big 12 team.&nbsp;As a punter, Zentner enters bowl season ranked 17th in the nation and second in the Big 12 with a 44.7-yard average, a mark that currently ranks second in school history. He has 19 punts this season that have traveled at least 50 yards, while a career-high 26 of his punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line.&nbsp;As a placekicker, Zentner went 29-for-29 on extra-point attempts and 9-for-9 on field goals, including the one in overtime that gave K-State the Big 12 championship.&nbsp;The state of Kansas has been good to the K-State football program. Since 1990, Wildcat players earning all conference honors have come from 33 cities in Kansas.&nbsp;The Big 12 championship game is over, and confetti rains down as a Big 12 championship is celebrated by the Wildcats – including those big offensive linemen. We commend all Kansas kids for making a difference in playing so well for their in-state teams because we appreciate homegrown heroes.&nbsp;Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.

NOW THAT'S RURAL: K-State football

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Recent obituaries and service time

Today is Sunday, Dec. 25, the 359th day of 2022. There are six days left in the year. This is Christmas Day.

On Dec. 25, 1776, Gen. George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, New Jersey, during the American Revolutionary War.

In A.D. 336, the first known commemoration of Christmas on Dec. 25 took place in Rome.

In 1066, William the Conqueror was crowned King of England.

In 1818, "Silent Night (Stille Nacht)" was publicly performed for the first time during the Christmas Midnight Mass at the Church of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria.

In 1926, Hirohito became emperor of Japan, succeeding his father, Emperor Yoshihito.

In 1946, comedian W.C. Fields died in Pasadena, California, at age 66.

In 1977, comedian Sir Charles Chaplin died in Switzerland at age 88.

In 1989, ousted Romanian President Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife, Elena, were executed following a popular uprising. Former baseball manager Billy Martin, 61, died in a traffic accident near Binghamton, New York.

In 1991, Soviet President Mikhail S. Gorbachev went on television to announce his resignation as the eighth and final leader of a communist superpower that had already gone out of existence.

In 1999, space shuttle Discovery's astronauts finished their repair job on the Hubble Space Telescope and released it back into orbit.

In 2003, 16 people were killed by mudslides that swept over campgrounds in California's San Bernardino Valley. Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf survived a second assassination bid in 11 days, but 17 other people were killed.

In 2009, passengers aboard Northwest Airlines Flight 253 foiled an attempt to blow up the plane as it was landing in Detroit by seizing Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, who tried to set off explosives in his underwear. (Abdulmutallab later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.)

In 2020, a recreational vehicle parked in the deserted streets of downtown Nashville exploded early Christmas morning, damaging dozens of buildings, causing widespread communications outages and grounding holiday travel at the city's airport; investigators later determined that the bomber, a 63-year-old Nashville-area man, was killed in the explosion.

Ten years ago: In his Christmas message to the world, Pope Benedict XVI called for an end to the slaughter in Syria and for more meaningful negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, while encouraging more religious freedom under China's new leaders. Chicago mobster Frank Calabrese Sr., 75, died at a federal prison in North Carolina.

Five years ago: In his traditional Christmas message, Pope Francis called for a two-state solution in the Middle East, and prayed that confrontation could be overcome on the Korean Peninsula. Harsh winter weather gripped much of the country on Christmas, with bitter cold in the Midwest and a blizzard moving into New England. Russian election officials formally barred opposition leader Alexei Navalny from running for president, prompting him to call for a boycott of the March 2018 vote.

One year ago: NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, the world's largest and most powerful space telescope, rocketed away from French Guiana in South America on a quest to behold light from the first stars and galaxies and scour the universe for hints of life. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights as staffing issues tied to COVID-19 disrupted holiday celebrations during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Pope Francis used his Christmas Day address to pray for an end to the coronavirus pandemic.

Today's Birthdays: Author Anne Roiphe is 87. Actor Hanna Schygulla is 79. R&amp;B singer John Edwards (The Spinners) is 78. Actor Gary Sandy is 77. Singer Jimmy Buffett is 76. Pro and College Football Hall-of-Famer Larry Csonka is 76. Country singer Barbara Mandrell is 74. Actor Sissy Spacek is 73. Blues singer/guitarist Joe Louis Walker is 73. Former White House adviser Karl Rove is 72. Actor CCH Pounder is 70. Singer Annie Lennox is 68. Reggae singer-musician Robin Campbell (UB40) is 68. Country singer Steve Wariner is 68. Singer Shane MacGowan (The Pogues, The Popes) is 65. Baseball Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson is 64. The former chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, Christina Romer, is 64. Actor Klea Scott is 54. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is 51. Rock musician Noel Hogan (The Cranberries) is 51. Singer Dido is 51. Rock singer Mac Powell (Third Day) is 50. R&amp;B singer Ryan Shaw is 42. Country singer Alecia Elliott is 40. Pop singers Jess and Lisa Origliasso (The Veronicas) are 38. Actor Perdita Weeks is 37. Rock singer-musician Lukas Nelson (Lukas Nelson &amp; Promise of the Real) is 34.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Sunday, Dec. 25, the 359th day of 2022. There are six days left in the year. This is Christmas Day.Today's Highlight in History:On Dec. 25, 1776, Gen. George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, New Jersey, during the American Revolutionary War.On this date:In A.D. 336, the first known commemoration of Christmas on Dec. 25 took place in Rome.In 1066, William the Conqueror was crowned King of England.In 1818, "Silent Night (Stille Nacht)" was publicly performed for the first time during the Christmas Midnight Mass at the Church of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria.In 1926, Hirohito became emperor of Japan, succeeding his father, Emperor Yoshihito.In 1946, comedian W.C. Fields died in Pasadena, California, at age 66.In 1977, comedian Sir Charles Chaplin died in Switzerland at age 88.In 1989, ousted Romanian President Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife, Elena, were executed following a popular uprising. Former baseball manager Billy Martin, 61, died in a traffic accident near Binghamton, New York.In 1991, Soviet President Mikhail S. Gorbachev went on television to announce his resignation as the eighth and final leader of a communist superpower that had already gone out of existence.In 1999, space shuttle Discovery's astronauts finished their repair job on the Hubble Space Telescope and released it back into orbit.In 2003, 16 people were killed by mudslides that swept over campgrounds in California's San Bernardino Valley. Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf survived a second assassination bid in 11 days, but 17 other people were killed.In 2009, passengers aboard Northwest Airlines Flight 253 foiled an attempt to blow up the plane as it was landing in Detroit by seizing Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, who tried to set off explosives in his underwear. (Abdulmutallab later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.)In 2020, a recreational vehicle parked in the deserted streets of downtown Nashville exploded early Christmas morning, damaging dozens of buildings, causing widespread communications outages and grounding holiday travel at the city's airport; investigators later determined that the bomber, a 63-year-old Nashville-area man, was killed in the explosion.Ten years ago: In his Christmas message to the world, Pope Benedict XVI called for an end to the slaughter in Syria and for more meaningful negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, while encouraging more religious freedom under China's new leaders. Chicago mobster Frank Calabrese Sr., 75, died at a federal prison in North Carolina.Five years ago: In his traditional Christmas message, Pope Francis called for a two-state solution in the Middle East, and prayed that confrontation could be overcome on the Korean Peninsula. Harsh winter weather gripped much of the country on Christmas, with bitter cold in the Midwest and a blizzard moving into New England. Russian election officials formally barred opposition leader Alexei Navalny from running for president, prompting him to call for a boycott of the March 2018 vote.One year ago: NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, the world's largest and most powerful space telescope, rocketed away from French Guiana in South America on a quest to behold light from the first stars and galaxies and scour the universe for hints of life. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights as staffing issues tied to COVID-19 disrupted holiday celebrations during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Pope Francis used his Christmas Day address to pray for an end to the coronavirus pandemic.Today's Birthdays: Author Anne Roiphe is 87. Actor Hanna Schygulla is 79. R&amp;B singer John Edwards (The Spinners) is 78. Actor Gary Sandy is 77. Singer Jimmy Buffett is 76. Pro and College Football Hall-of-Famer Larry Csonka is 76. Country singer Barbara Mandrell is 74. Actor Sissy Spacek is 73. Blues singer/guitarist Joe Louis Walker is 73. Former White House adviser Karl Rove is 72. Actor CCH Pounder is 70. Singer Annie Lennox is 68. Reggae singer-musician Robin Campbell (UB40) is 68. Country singer Steve Wariner is 68. Singer Shane MacGowan (The Pogues, The Popes) is 65. Baseball Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson is 64. The former chair of the Council of Economic Advisers, Christina Romer, is 64. Actor Klea Scott is 54. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is 51. Rock musician Noel Hogan (The Cranberries) is 51. Singer Dido is 51. Rock singer Mac Powell (Third Day) is 50. R&amp;B singer Ryan Shaw is 42. Country singer Alecia Elliott is 40. Pop singers Jess and Lisa Origliasso (The Veronicas) are 38. Actor Perdita Weeks is 37. Rock singer-musician Lukas Nelson (Lukas Nelson &amp; Promise of the Real) is 34.

Today in History - December 25

When a fellow employee asked, Vortex Companies employees rallied to help make Christmas a little brighter for local children.

Derrick Turner, an employee of Spectrum Metalcraft, a Vortex company, asked the Vortex Companies to be a sponsor of Merry Mayhem, a unique local toy drive and concert event. Turner has been a driving force behind Merry Mayhem for more than a decade, according to information from Vortex.

The event, held on Dec. 10 in The Muse Ballroom, encourages all ages to enjoy several bands while collecting toys and raising funds for a different local charitable cause each year. In addition to the toy drive and concert, the event included a raffle to raise funds to purchase additional toys.

This year's beneficiary of Merry Mayhem was Higher Praise Church. The church had seen an increased need for assistance this year, so the additional assistance was much appreciated.

Vortex employees raised more than $1,200 toward the effort. The funds were used to purchase many toys that were then donated to the church.

Other sponsors included the following, according to the Merry Mayhem event Facebook post.

Additionally, bands that donated their time and talent included the following.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671926246769.jpeg" alt="Vortex employees with some of the toys they purchased from the more than $1,200 raised for the Merry Mayhem effort. Photos courtesy Tanner Colvin/Vortex" />
 <figcaption>Vortex employees with some of the toys they purchased from the more than $1,200 raised for the Merry Mayhem effort. Photos courtesy Tanner Colvin/Vortex</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTWhen a fellow employee asked, Vortex Companies employees rallied to help make Christmas a little brighter for local children.Derrick Turner, an employee of Spectrum Metalcraft, a Vortex company, asked the Vortex Companies to be a sponsor of Merry Mayhem, a unique local toy drive and concert event. Turner has been a driving force behind Merry Mayhem for more than a decade, according to information from Vortex.The event, held on Dec. 10 in The Muse Ballroom, encourages all ages to enjoy several bands while collecting toys and raising funds for a different local charitable cause each year. In addition to the toy drive and concert, the event included a raffle to raise funds to purchase additional toys.This year's beneficiary of Merry Mayhem was Higher Praise Church. The church had seen an increased need for assistance this year, so the additional assistance was much appreciated.Vortex employees raised more than $1,200 toward the effort. The funds were used to purchase many toys that were then donated to the church.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671926516857.jpeg" alt="Some of the many toys donated by Vortex employees." />
 <figcaption>Some of the many toys donated by Vortex employees.</figcaption>
 </figure>Other sponsors included the following, according to the Merry Mayhem event Facebook post.The Muse BallroomAndrew Strong (audio)JAB IT LLCSupercharged TattooPin Ups SalonWBC VisionsAuto Image DetailAdditionally, bands that donated their time and talent included the following.Reform in Ruin Imajjjin Love Like War Hour/Glass Diabolical Orange Monkey&nbsp;&nbsp;

Vortex employees join in Merry Mayhem effort to make season bright for kids

Congratulations! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069239108579">Abilene Police Dept. Facebook page</a>:

Congratulations! From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069239108579">Abilene Police Dept. Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid02TxQwACL5ZA4xWeuUXnT8QeHAbCTJoZpEYLNqtCKq7KBXYyf9eto2yxtqPtEdbMpHl%26id%3D100069239108579&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="737" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Abilene police officers honored for saving life

We had a beautiful start to the Christmas weekend with a colorful sunrise Saturday morning.

According to the National Weather Service, the Christmas Weekend forecast will begin with the lingering Arctic chill as high temperatures will only be in the 20s on Saturday.

Christmas day will be a bit warmer, with highs in the 30s to lower 40s.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/71bc26db-0712-4521-963c-86cb706095d4">UPDATE: NWS revises wintry mix forecast for Christmas night</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671893956929.jpeg" alt="Salinans were treated to a beautiful sunrise to kick off Christmas weekend. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Salinans were treated to a beautiful sunrise to kick off Christmas weekend. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTWe had a beautiful start to the Christmas weekend with a colorful sunrise Saturday morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671894270356.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>According to the National Weather Service, the Christmas Weekend forecast will begin with the lingering Arctic chill as high temperatures will only be in the 20s on Saturday.Christmas day will be a bit warmer, with highs in the 30s to lower 40s.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/71bc26db-0712-4521-963c-86cb706095d4">UPDATE: NWS revises wintry mix forecast for Christmas night</a>

Christmas weekend begins with colorful sunrise; temps rising

UPDATE 8 a.m. Saturday: The National Weather Service has revised its forecast for Christmas night. It is as follows.

There is a chance of a light wintry mix Sunday night into early Monday morning. Light freezing rain, freezing drizzle and light snow will be possible across parts of central and eastern Kansas.

If you're planning to travel in the area Christmas night, keep an eye on the weather.

There is a chance of a wintry mix across central Kansas Sunday night through early on Monday, mainly along Interstate 70, according to the National Weather Service. A dusting of snow and a thin glaze of ice is possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671890429010.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE 8 a.m. Saturday: The National Weather Service has revised its forecast for Christmas night. It is as follows.There is a chance of a light wintry mix Sunday night into early Monday morning. Light freezing rain, freezing drizzle and light snow will be possible across parts of central and eastern Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671847886158.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTIf you're planning to travel in the area Christmas night, keep an eye on the weather.There is a chance of a wintry mix across central Kansas Sunday night through early on Monday, mainly along Interstate 70, according to the National Weather Service. A dusting of snow and a thin glaze of ice is possible.

UPDATE: NWS revises wintry mix forecast for Christmas night

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2023-2026 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.&nbsp;

The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.wNSkabU_xT9b1bQI28UIFsAg2YmKl-YxkHpNTMtCDoE/s/2129667374/br/151220581339-l" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp</a>.&nbsp;

The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Jan 4.&nbsp;To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-3254.

This information is available in alternative accessible formats.&nbsp;To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Division of Communications, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711)

KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) requests comments on an amendment to the FFY 2023-2026 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) document.&nbsp;The STIP is a project specific publication that lists all KDOT administered projects, regardless of funding source, and includes projects for counties and cities as well as projects on the State Highway System. The list of projects being amended to the STIP can be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.wNSkabU_xT9b1bQI28UIFsAg2YmKl-YxkHpNTMtCDoE/s/2129667374/br/151220581339-l" target="_blank">http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/burProgProjMgmt/stip/stip.asp</a>.&nbsp;The approval of the STIP amendment requires a public comment period, which concludes Jan 4.&nbsp;To make comments on the amendment, contact KDOT’s Division of Program and Project Management at (785) 296-3254.This information is available in alternative accessible formats.&nbsp;To obtain an alternative format, contact the KDOT Division of Communications, (785) 296-3585 (Voice/Hearing Impaired-711)

KDOT requesting comments on STIP amendment

Today is Saturday, Dec. 24, the 358th day of 2022. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve.

On Dec. 24, 1968, the Apollo 8 astronauts, orbiting the moon, read passages from the Old Testament Book of Genesis during a Christmas Eve telecast.

In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate.

In 1851, fire devastated the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroying about 35,000 volumes.

In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan.

In 1906, Canadian physicist Reginald A. Fessenden became the first person to transmit the human voice (his own) as well as music over radio, from Brant Rock, Massachusetts.

In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of "Fire!" during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan.

In 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front between British and German soldiers.

In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe as part of Operation Overlord.

In 1951, Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," the first opera written specifically for television, was broadcast by NBC-TV.

In 1990, actor Tom Cruise married his "Days of Thunder" co-star, Nicole Kidman, during a private ceremony at a Colorado ski resort (the marriage ended in 2001).

In 1992, President Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal.

In 2013, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II granted a posthumous pardon to code-breaker Alan Turing, who was convicted of homosexual behavior in the 1950s.

In 2020, Bethlehem ushered in Christmas Eve with a stream of joyous marching bands and the triumphant arrival of the top Catholic clergyman in the Holy Land, but few people were there to greet them as the pandemic and a strict lockdown dampened celebrations. Just a week before the deadline, Britain and the European Union struck a free-trade deal that would avert economic chaos on New Year's and bring a measure of certainty for businesses after years of Brexit turmoil.

Ten years ago: An Afghan policewoman walked into a high-security compound in Kabul and killed an American contractor, the first such shooting by a woman in a spate of insider attacks by Afghans against their foreign allies. An ex-con gunned down two firefighters in Webster, New York, after luring them to his suburban Rochester neighborhood by setting a car and a house ablaze, then took shots at police and committed suicide as seven homes burned down. Death claimed actors Charles Durning, 89, and Jack Klugman, 90.

Five years ago: Peru's president announced that he had granted a medical pardon to jailed former strongman Alberto Fujimori, 79, who had been serving a 25-year sentence for human rights abuses, corruption and the sanctioning of death squads. In Christmas eve remarks, Pope Francis likened the journey to Bethlehem by Mary and Joseph to the migrations of millions of people today who are forced to leave homelands for a better life, or just to survive.

One year ago: Around the world, the surging coronavirus dampened Christmas Eve festivities for a second year, with travel plans disrupted and churches canceling or scaling back services. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights as the omicron variant jumbled schedules and drew down staffing levels at some carriers during the busy holiday travel season. Drummers and bagpipers marched through Bethlehem to smaller than usual crowds after new Israeli travel restrictions aimed at slowing the highly contagious omicron variant kept international tourists away. Pope Francis celebrated Christmas Eve Mass before an estimated 2,000 people in St. Peter's Basilica, going ahead with the service despite the resurgence in COVID-19 cases that had prompted a new vaccine mandate for Vatican employees.

Today's Birthdays: Dr. Anthony Fauci is 82. Recording company executive Mike Curb is 78. Actor Sharon Farrell is 76. Former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is 76. Actor Grand L. Bush is 67. Actor Stephanie Hodge is 66. The former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, is 65. Rock musician Ian Burden (The Human League) is 65. Actor Anil Kapoor is 63. Actor Eva Tamargo is 62. Actor Wade Williams is 61. Rock singer Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs) is 59. Actor Mark Valley is 58. Actor Diedrich Bader is 56. Actor Amaury Nolasco is 52. Singer Ricky Martin is 51. Author Stephenie Meyer is 49. TV personality Ryan Seacrest (TV: "Live With Kelly &amp; Ryan") is 48. Actor Michael Raymond-James is 45. Actor Austin Stowell is 38. Actor Sofia Black-D'Elia is 31. Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 31. NFL wide receiver Davante Adams is 30. Estonian tennis player Anett Kontaveit is 27.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Saturday, Dec. 24, the 358th day of 2022. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve.Today's Highlight in History:On Dec. 24, 1968, the Apollo 8 astronauts, orbiting the moon, read passages from the Old Testament Book of Genesis during a Christmas Eve telecast.On this date:In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate.In 1851, fire devastated the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroying about 35,000 volumes.In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan.In 1906, Canadian physicist Reginald A. Fessenden became the first person to transmit the human voice (his own) as well as music over radio, from Brant Rock, Massachusetts.In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of "Fire!" during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan.In 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front between British and German soldiers.In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe as part of Operation Overlord.In 1951, Gian Carlo Menotti's "Amahl and the Night Visitors," the first opera written specifically for television, was broadcast by NBC-TV.In 1990, actor Tom Cruise married his "Days of Thunder" co-star, Nicole Kidman, during a private ceremony at a Colorado ski resort (the marriage ended in 2001).In 1992, President Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal.In 2013, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II granted a posthumous pardon to code-breaker Alan Turing, who was convicted of homosexual behavior in the 1950s.In 2020, Bethlehem ushered in Christmas Eve with a stream of joyous marching bands and the triumphant arrival of the top Catholic clergyman in the Holy Land, but few people were there to greet them as the pandemic and a strict lockdown dampened celebrations. Just a week before the deadline, Britain and the European Union struck a free-trade deal that would avert economic chaos on New Year's and bring a measure of certainty for businesses after years of Brexit turmoil.Ten years ago: An Afghan policewoman walked into a high-security compound in Kabul and killed an American contractor, the first such shooting by a woman in a spate of insider attacks by Afghans against their foreign allies. An ex-con gunned down two firefighters in Webster, New York, after luring them to his suburban Rochester neighborhood by setting a car and a house ablaze, then took shots at police and committed suicide as seven homes burned down. Death claimed actors Charles Durning, 89, and Jack Klugman, 90.Five years ago: Peru's president announced that he had granted a medical pardon to jailed former strongman Alberto Fujimori, 79, who had been serving a 25-year sentence for human rights abuses, corruption and the sanctioning of death squads. In Christmas eve remarks, Pope Francis likened the journey to Bethlehem by Mary and Joseph to the migrations of millions of people today who are forced to leave homelands for a better life, or just to survive.One year ago: Around the world, the surging coronavirus dampened Christmas Eve festivities for a second year, with travel plans disrupted and churches canceling or scaling back services. Airlines canceled hundreds of flights as the omicron variant jumbled schedules and drew down staffing levels at some carriers during the busy holiday travel season. Drummers and bagpipers marched through Bethlehem to smaller than usual crowds after new Israeli travel restrictions aimed at slowing the highly contagious omicron variant kept international tourists away. Pope Francis celebrated Christmas Eve Mass before an estimated 2,000 people in St. Peter's Basilica, going ahead with the service despite the resurgence in COVID-19 cases that had prompted a new vaccine mandate for Vatican employees.Today's Birthdays: Dr. Anthony Fauci is 82. Recording company executive Mike Curb is 78. Actor Sharon Farrell is 76. Former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is 76. Actor Grand L. Bush is 67. Actor Stephanie Hodge is 66. The former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, is 65. Rock musician Ian Burden (The Human League) is 65. Actor Anil Kapoor is 63. Actor Eva Tamargo is 62. Actor Wade Williams is 61. Rock singer Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs) is 59. Actor Mark Valley is 58. Actor Diedrich Bader is 56. Actor Amaury Nolasco is 52. Singer Ricky Martin is 51. Author Stephenie Meyer is 49. TV personality Ryan Seacrest (TV: "Live With Kelly &amp; Ryan") is 48. Actor Michael Raymond-James is 45. Actor Austin Stowell is 38. Actor Sofia Black-D'Elia is 31. Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 31. NFL wide receiver Davante Adams is 30. Estonian tennis player Anett Kontaveit is 27.

Today in History - December 24

Another example of kindness in our community. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaRegionalHealthCenter/">Salina Regional Health Center Facebook page</a>:

Another example of kindness in our community. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SalinaRegionalHealthCenter/">Salina Regional Health Center Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSalinaRegionalHealthCenter%2Fposts%2Fpfbid027wwr3QsnrqVh7ZQoYbA8K4CP9TxEdBQ9CXAtPCGXu8rBtuANibbYJp3zE3EiRmVql&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="889" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

SRHC elves help others have a Merry Christmas this year

Wind chill advisories have been issued for our area.

A wind chill advisory means that very cold air and strong winds will combine to generate low wind chills. This will result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. If you must venture outdoors, make sure you wear a hat and gloves.

READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cfed035a-36d2-4008-bc0a-c0b2be375a21">CDC: Prevent hypothermia, frostbite this winter</a>

READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/413ccd60-5f50-494b-a192-749fbb777041">K-State veterinarian offers cold weather pet care tips</a>

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.

Very cold wind chills as low as 15 below zero are forecast.

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.

Wind chills in the 15 degree below zero to 25 below zero range are forecast.

The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued a wind chill advisory in effect until noon Saturday for the following counties in our area.

The advisory replaces the wind chill warning.

Very cold wind chills will continue into the overnight hours. In general, wind chills will range from 15 to 25 below zero.

By SALINA POSTWind chill advisories have been issued for our area.A wind chill advisory means that very cold air and strong winds will combine to generate low wind chills. This will result in frostbite and lead to hypothermia if precautions are not taken. If you must venture outdoors, make sure you wear a hat and gloves.READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/cfed035a-36d2-4008-bc0a-c0b2be375a21">CDC: Prevent hypothermia, frostbite this winter</a>READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/413ccd60-5f50-494b-a192-749fbb777041">K-State veterinarian offers cold weather pet care tips</a>The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.Ellsworth CountyLincoln CountyMarion CountyMcPherson CountySaline CountyVery cold wind chills as low as 15 below zero are forecast.The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a wind chill advisory in effect from 6 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.Clay CountyCloud CountyDickinson CountyOttawa CountyRepublic CountyWind chills in the 15 degree below zero to 25 below zero range are forecast.The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued a wind chill advisory in effect until noon Saturday for the following counties in our area.Jewell CountyMitchell CountyThe advisory replaces the wind chill warning.Very cold wind chills will continue into the overnight hours. In general, wind chills will range from 15 to 25 below zero.

Wind chill advisories issued for all counties in our area

Chairman of the Board of Directors Mike Berkley marks 55th year in banking

In 1887, the Bennington State Bank became one of the first banks chartered by the State of Kansas.

What started as a single-branch operation in the small town of Bennington has grown these past 135 years into an expansive operation with nine locations in eight Kansas communities.

While that growth story may be impressive, President and CEO Darren Gragg said it has also been with intentional focus on customers, employees and communities. The bank, he said, will never grow beyond its means to do business face-to-face and to develop deep-seated relationships in the communities it serves.

“It’s about the value of the conversation,” Gragg said. “Most banks want to get that loan booked and move on to the next one as fast as they can. We’re the opposite. The quality of those conversations&nbsp; and our willingness to spend the time is what’s been important to us.”

That model speaks to the bank’s legacy of being locally owned and operated for its entire 135-year existence. It also speaks directly, Gragg said, to the lessons taught for 55 years and counting by Mike Berkley.

On Dec. 1, 1967, Berkley and his seven siblings purchased the Bennington State Bank from their parents and uncles, who had owned the bank since 1945. The family tapped Berkley to run the operation, though he initially agreed to do so under the condition that he’d only be there a few years.

“I had just gotten out of law school and was working in Denver for a CPA firm,” Berkley recalled. “I liked it in Denver, and I was planning on getting a CPA certificate. My plans were eventually to come to Salina and practice law.”

Fifty-five years later, while now retired, he chairs the bank’s board of directors. He never practiced law, as banking became his lifelong business endeavor. 

When Berkley took control of the bank in '67, it had assets of about $5 million. Today, total assets are approaching $1 billion. Through it all, the Bennington State Bank has maintained strong capital and holds a 5-star rating by Bauer Financial, the nation’s leading independent bank rating firm.

Berkley and team first expanded in 1986, adding a branch in Minneapolis. Then in 1989, they opened their first Salina branch on S. Ninth Street and moved the bank’s charter to Salina. They opened a second Salina location in 1995 on S. Ohio Street. The Wamego branch opened in 2004, followed by Sylvan Grove in 2010, Lucas in 2011, Abilene in 2021 and Wichita in January of this year. The bank has also significantly expanded its Trust &amp; Wealth Management Division over the past eight years to over $380 million in assets under management.

Berkley attributed the bank’s growth and ongoing success to investing in people and communities. He said that while the bank’s portfolio may have included more risk than other banks would tolerate, he’s always seen the value in erring on the side of helping his fellow community members.

“Seeing somebody who was maybe turned down at other banks go on to be successful, that’s very rewarding,” Berkley said. “I think our customers and communities realize that we’re going to work with them. Just because they have a bad year or two, they know we are not going to cut and run.”

Gragg credited Berkley with also having the foresight to retain talented employees by investing in their wellbeing. In 1978, about 10 years into his ownership, Berkley instituted an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that allows staff members the opportunity to own shares in the bank and participate in the bank’s financial success. This program is completely bank funded on behalf of participants.

“In my heart, one thing that I always felt wrong about was when you would see a retirement picture where the person gets a plaque and a thank you for 20 years or more of service,” Berkley said. “And you know what, that kind of bothered Mike Berkley. So I promoted that we start the ESOP.”

Gragg said that in 2022, more than 100 participants owned Bank stock through the program, which owns 10% of the bank. Additionally, in 2016, the bank began a program to sell stock directly to an employee. Today, 10 employees together own more than 3% of the bank, outside the ESOP.

With 135 years now in the books and a 55-years-and-counting career for its chairman, the Bennington State Bank has history on its side.

“The key to the future is to not outsmart your common sense,” Gragg said. “Our goal is to continue to improve on the foundation Mike has put in place while staying true to the principles that have made BSB successful.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671815061826.jpeg" alt="Mike Berkley, chairman of the board of directors (left) and Darren Gragg, president and CEO, Bennington State Bank. Photo courtesy Bennington State Bank" />
 <figcaption>Mike Berkley, chairman of the board of directors (left) and Darren Gragg, president and CEO, Bennington State Bank. Photo courtesy Bennington State Bank</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Chairman of the Board of Directors Mike Berkley marks 55th year in banking</h2>Bennington State BankIn 1887, the Bennington State Bank became one of the first banks chartered by the State of Kansas.What started as a single-branch operation in the small town of Bennington has grown these past 135 years into an expansive operation with nine locations in eight Kansas communities.While that growth story may be impressive, President and CEO Darren Gragg said it has also been with intentional focus on customers, employees and communities. The bank, he said, will never grow beyond its means to do business face-to-face and to develop deep-seated relationships in the communities it serves.“It’s about the value of the conversation,” Gragg said. “Most banks want to get that loan booked and move on to the next one as fast as they can. We’re the opposite. The quality of those conversations&nbsp; and our willingness to spend the time is what’s been important to us.”That model speaks to the bank’s legacy of being locally owned and operated for its entire 135-year existence. It also speaks directly, Gragg said, to the lessons taught for 55 years and counting by Mike Berkley.On Dec. 1, 1967, Berkley and his seven siblings purchased the Bennington State Bank from their parents and uncles, who had owned the bank since 1945. The family tapped Berkley to run the operation, though he initially agreed to do so under the condition that he’d only be there a few years.“I had just gotten out of law school and was working in Denver for a CPA firm,” Berkley recalled. “I liked it in Denver, and I was planning on getting a CPA certificate. My plans were eventually to come to Salina and practice law.”Fifty-five years later, while now retired, he chairs the bank’s board of directors. He never practiced law, as banking became his lifelong business endeavor. When Berkley took control of the bank in '67, it had assets of about $5 million. Today, total assets are approaching $1 billion. Through it all, the Bennington State Bank has maintained strong capital and holds a 5-star rating by Bauer Financial, the nation’s leading independent bank rating firm.Berkley and team first expanded in 1986, adding a branch in Minneapolis. Then in 1989, they opened their first Salina branch on S. Ninth Street and moved the bank’s charter to Salina. They opened a second Salina location in 1995 on S. Ohio Street. The Wamego branch opened in 2004, followed by Sylvan Grove in 2010, Lucas in 2011, Abilene in 2021 and Wichita in January of this year. The bank has also significantly expanded its Trust &amp; Wealth Management Division over the past eight years to over $380 million in assets under management.Berkley attributed the bank’s growth and ongoing success to investing in people and communities. He said that while the bank’s portfolio may have included more risk than other banks would tolerate, he’s always seen the value in erring on the side of helping his fellow community members.“Seeing somebody who was maybe turned down at other banks go on to be successful, that’s very rewarding,” Berkley said. “I think our customers and communities realize that we’re going to work with them. Just because they have a bad year or two, they know we are not going to cut and run.”Gragg credited Berkley with also having the foresight to retain talented employees by investing in their wellbeing. In 1978, about 10 years into his ownership, Berkley instituted an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that allows staff members the opportunity to own shares in the bank and participate in the bank’s financial success. This program is completely bank funded on behalf of participants.“In my heart, one thing that I always felt wrong about was when you would see a retirement picture where the person gets a plaque and a thank you for 20 years or more of service,” Berkley said. “And you know what, that kind of bothered Mike Berkley. So I promoted that we start the ESOP.”Gragg said that in 2022, more than 100 participants owned Bank stock through the program, which owns 10% of the bank. Additionally, in 2016, the bank began a program to sell stock directly to an employee. Today, 10 employees together own more than 3% of the bank, outside the ESOP.With 135 years now in the books and a 55-years-and-counting career for its chairman, the Bennington State Bank has history on its side.“The key to the future is to not outsmart your common sense,” Gragg said. “Our goal is to continue to improve on the foundation Mike has put in place while staying true to the principles that have made BSB successful.”

Bennington State Bank celebrates 135th anniversary

The Georgetown Santas don't let the frigid weather keep them down for long. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/georgetownsantas">Georgetown Santas Facebook page</a>:

The Georgetown Santas don't let the frigid weather keep them down for long. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/georgetownsantas">Georgetown Santas Facebook page</a>:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgeorgetownsantas%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02v4cQJx6BZJtrukXY2BKwrrPzuW5unyM2QXNGf3aNEHTKdPNvnRVuHmt8gF9mxygLl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="609" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Georgetown Santas plan to be out Friday night

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly today announced the recipients of the fall 2022 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize underused and dilapidated downtown buildings and turn them into economic drivers in Kansas communities. A total of 15 projects from across the state are receiving almost $773,000 in matching grant funds.

HEAL was created in 2021 as a partnership between the Patterson Family Foundation and the Department of Commerce. The first round of HEAL grants resulted in 32 commercial buildings being rehabilitated.

“I have long believed that when you make downtowns attractive, safe places to be, more businesses, better jobs, and greater community follow,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “That’s why my administration has worked to bring life back into our town squares by resurrecting the Kansas Main Street program and by pursuing this partnership with the Patterson Family Foundation.

Interest in the program remains strong. A total of 30 applications were received during the latest HEAL grant round.&nbsp;

The fall 2022 HEAL grant awardees include:

●Cheyenne Center for Creativity, Cheyenne County – $29,000

●City of Arkansas City, Cowley County – $45,500

●City of Bonner Springs, Wyandotte County – $75,000

●City of Corning, Nemaha County – $75,000

●City of Meriden, Jefferson County – $33,950

●City of Ottawa, Franklin County – $75,000

●City of White Cloud, Doniphan County – $25,000

●Go! Augusta, Butler County – $30,000

●Main Street Dodge City, Ford County – $23,273

●Overbrook Community Foundation, Osage County – $33,700

●Revitalize YC, Woodson County – $75,000

●Russell PRIDE Inc., Russell County – $52,000

●Seneca Downtown Impact Inc., Nemaha County – $75,000

●Solomon Valley Economic Development, Mitchell County – $75,000

 ●Sylvan Senior Center, Lincoln County – $50,400

This program is possible because of a strategic collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundation. Through leveraging resources, greater impact is possible for these Kansas communities. The re-utilization of these buildings as economic drivers creates additional opportunities for investment in downtown areas and is key to growing strong Kansas communities.

“Active downtown areas give a sense of place to small communities,”&nbsp;said Lindsey Patterson Smith, President of the Patterson Family Foundation.&nbsp;“We were happy to join the Department of Commerce and its partners in helping create new opportunities through revitalization.”

The spring 2023 HEAL round will open February 15 and close March 31. An informational webinar will be offered via Zoom at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 2. Register for the webinar and find more information about the spring 2023 HEAL program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjMuNjg3NTc2NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9oZWFsIn0.EAtMCOVOtcm0jEojBRPGLXq3hqzcbQ6v-b5hiKPzYDU/s/1419840138/br/151222049260-l" target="_blank">kansascommerce.gov/heal</a>.

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly today announced the recipients of the fall 2022 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) grants to revitalize underused and dilapidated downtown buildings and turn them into economic drivers in Kansas communities. A total of 15 projects from across the state are receiving almost $773,000 in matching grant funds.HEAL was created in 2021 as a partnership between the Patterson Family Foundation and the Department of Commerce. The first round of HEAL grants resulted in 32 commercial buildings being rehabilitated.“I have long believed that when you make downtowns attractive, safe places to be, more businesses, better jobs, and greater community follow,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “That’s why my administration has worked to bring life back into our town squares by resurrecting the Kansas Main Street program and by pursuing this partnership with the Patterson Family Foundation.Interest in the program remains strong. A total of 30 applications were received during the latest HEAL grant round.&nbsp;The fall 2022 HEAL grant awardees include:●Cheyenne Center for Creativity, Cheyenne County – $29,000●City of Arkansas City, Cowley County – $45,500●City of Bonner Springs, Wyandotte County – $75,000●City of Corning, Nemaha County – $75,000●City of Meriden, Jefferson County – $33,950●City of Ottawa, Franklin County – $75,000●City of White Cloud, Doniphan County – $25,000●Go! Augusta, Butler County – $30,000●Main Street Dodge City, Ford County – $23,273●Overbrook Community Foundation, Osage County – $33,700●Revitalize YC, Woodson County – $75,000●Russell PRIDE Inc., Russell County – $52,000●Seneca Downtown Impact Inc., Nemaha County – $75,000●Solomon Valley Economic Development, Mitchell County – $75,000 ●Sylvan Senior Center, Lincoln County – $50,400This program is possible because of a strategic collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundation. Through leveraging resources, greater impact is possible for these Kansas communities. The re-utilization of these buildings as economic drivers creates additional opportunities for investment in downtown areas and is key to growing strong Kansas communities.“Active downtown areas give a sense of place to small communities,”&nbsp;said Lindsey Patterson Smith, President of the Patterson Family Foundation.&nbsp;“We were happy to join the Department of Commerce and its partners in helping create new opportunities through revitalization.”The spring 2023 HEAL round will open February 15 and close March 31. An informational webinar will be offered via Zoom at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 2. Register for the webinar and find more information about the spring 2023 HEAL program at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEyMjMuNjg3NTc2NjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9oZWFsIn0.EAtMCOVOtcm0jEojBRPGLXq3hqzcbQ6v-b5hiKPzYDU/s/1419840138/br/151222049260-l" target="_blank">kansascommerce.gov/heal</a>.

Kelly: State HEAL grants include Mitchell, Lincoln counties

We're still facing dangerous wind chills today and tonight, but the weather will begin to warm a bit over the next few days.

Dangerously cold wind chills will continue to affect the area today and tonight. Limit outdoor activity, as frostbite could result in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. Be sure to cover any exposed skin and dress in warm layers of clothing.

It will not be as cold on Christmas day with highs climbing above freezing across most of central and southeast Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671809277503.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTWe're still facing dangerous wind chills today and tonight, but the weather will begin to warm a bit over the next few days.Dangerously cold wind chills will continue to affect the area today and tonight. Limit outdoor activity, as frostbite could result in as little as 15 to 30 minutes. Be sure to cover any exposed skin and dress in warm layers of clothing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671809663673.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It will not be as cold on Christmas day with highs climbing above freezing across most of central and southeast Kansas.

Dangerous wind chills through tonight, then a slight warmup begins

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A local woman was arrested after a single-vehicle wreck in western Salina early this morning.

Robyn Griffith, 46, of Salina, was southbound on Cherokee Drive in a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse when the SUV went through the end of the roadway and struck a barricade, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.

The wreck occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. Friday.

The collision moved large concrete barrier blocks approximately six inches. Griffith was located in the driver's seat attempting to restart the SUV, he noted. No injuries were reported.

According to Forrester, Griffith was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and improper driving on laned roadways.

The SUV sustained heavy front-end damage and was towed from the scene.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA local woman was arrested after a single-vehicle wreck in western Salina early this morning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671806582395.jpeg" alt="Robyn Griffith. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Robyn Griffith. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Robyn Griffith, 46, of Salina, was southbound on Cherokee Drive in a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse when the SUV went through the end of the roadway and struck a barricade, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning.The wreck occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. Friday.The collision moved large concrete barrier blocks approximately six inches. Griffith was located in the driver's seat attempting to restart the SUV, he noted. No injuries were reported.According to Forrester, Griffith was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and improper driving on laned roadways.The SUV sustained heavy front-end damage and was towed from the scene.

West Salina wreck early this morning ends in arrest for local woman

We will publish weather-related delays, closings, and changes as information becomes available.

Choices Network, Inc., closed&nbsp;

Kansas Wesleyan University, opening at 10 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State Salina is limiting operations to essential personnel only.

Minneapolis&nbsp;Golden Wheel Senior Center, closed. All scheduled activities canceled

By SALINA POSTWe will publish weather-related delays, closings, and changes as information becomes available.<h2>FRIDAY</h2>Choices Network, Inc., closed&nbsp;Kansas Wesleyan University, opening at 10 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;K-State Salina is limiting operations to essential personnel only.Minneapolis&nbsp;Golden Wheel Senior Center, closed. All scheduled activities canceledPeabody Senior Center, closed&nbsp;&nbsp;Rolling Hills Zoo, closed. The&nbsp;Elephant Trunk Gift Shop will remain open, admission free.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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